The 'heroes of Mumbai' [Images] will be a major attraction at the Republic Day parade this year, with the National Security Guard sending a contingent to join other uniformed services to march on Rajpath for the first time in its history.

"The NSG will be sending its marching contingent to the parade for the first time this year in its nearly 25-year history. And this invitation comes in recognition of the service they rendered during the Mumbai terror strikes on November 26 last year," a defence ministry source told PTI on Tuesday.

Earlier, the NSG's role during the Republic Day parade was limited only to providing security cover to the contingents and the VVIPs present there.

Since its raising in 1984, NSG has been tasked to carry out anti-terrorist operations and to protect India's top political leadership.

The government is likely to honour 14 security personnel from the recommended names with top gallantry medals this year, sources said.

"Nine personnel are likely to be awarded the Ashok Chakra and five others, the Shaurya Chakra and Kirti Chakra," sources said.

Most of the personnel nominated for the gallantry medals participated in the 26/11 Mumbai operations, including the three senior police officers who died during the terrorist gunfire, sources added.